Is There A Bug Repellent For Hydrangea-Loving Insects?

To combat pests on hydrangeas, use a 1:7 ratio of rubbing alcohol and water every 3 days until no insects remain. If too many insects are present, remove the infested parts of the plant. For more pervasive bugs like the Four-lined plant bug, insecticidal soaps or neem oil can provide relief. It is crucial to address these issues promptly as unchecked pests can cause significant damage.

Hydrophides are not only found in almost every garden but also attract beneficial insects, such as bees, butterflies, and predators that help reduce pests, such as soldier beetles. Fungicides containing captan or chlorothalonil are effective, but to protect pollinators, avoid applying them to flowering plants.

Japanese beetles on hydrangeas can be treated with mint, Eucalyptus oil, and Neem oil. Horticultural oil is a non-toxic insect treatment that doesn’t affect beneficial insects but requires reapplying after rain. Sprays should be applied primarily on leaf undersides where these insects hide, as the sun can cause burn spots on sprayed leaves. Neem oil at 70 percent is a good option.

To remove the Four-lined plant bug from hydrangeas, use insecticidal soap or neem. These bugs live most of their lives in the plant and can be treated with insecticidal soap or ladybug larvae. If the problem isn’t severe, prune off and destroy affected leaves. If the infestation is severe, use rust-specific organic fungicides like Neem Oil 3n1.

Infected plants should be sprayed with horticultural oil at the winter rate, paying particular attention to the base of branches. Plants in flower should not be sprayed due to the danger to bees and other pollinating insects. The best time for summer spraying is in July when the more invasive insects are less likely to be found.

If lice do not disappear, they can be controlled by spraying with a mixture of soap solution and methylated spirit.